National Day of Scientific Culture was established by Professor Mariano Gago, portuguese Minister for Science and Technology, in 1996. The date chosen for the annual celebration was 24 November, the birthday of Rómulo Vasco da Gama Carvalho (1906–1997), a leading figure in science and scientific culture in Portugal, who was also a poet (under the pseudonym António Gedeão), historian and playwright, as well as a professor of physical chemistry.

Anyone who has heard the song "Pedra Filosofal" will know the author’s most famous poem.

The Faculty of Biotecnology has been taking part in this celebration since 2022 with a science outreach activity open to all interested secondary school students and focused on the people behind science.

In the late afternoon, over an informal snack, young people have the opportunity to learn about the backgrounds, goals, questions and motivations of researchers and PhD students from the School’s research centre.

In 2026, the event will take place on 19 November, from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm. Participation is free and very simple: all you need to do is complete this individual registration form (by 15 November).

Confirmation of acceptance will subsequently be sent by email, subject to the auditorium’s capacity.